Under-the-sink storage is convenient, but pet owners need to be careful. Many everyday household items that seem harmless are actually toxic to our furry companions. If you have cats or dogs (especially curious puppies), it’s time to reassess what lurks beneath your bathroom or kitchen sink.
1. Cleaning Supplies
Bleach, detergents, bathroom cleaners… the list goes on. These chemical-laden products are hazardous to pets if ingested or even just from skin contact. Even “natural” cleaning products often contain essential oils that can be toxic to animals. Keep these locked away in higher cabinets where curious paws (and noses) can’t reach them.
2. Medication (Both Yours and Theirs)
Pills are especially alluring to pets, who might mistake them for treats. Human medications, even seemingly innocuous ones like ibuprofen, can be deadly to animals. The same goes for pet prescriptions; an extra dose could cause serious health complications. Stash all medications well out of reach, ideally in a medicine cabinet or childproof container on a high shelf.
3. Garbage Bags and Trash Bins
The lingering smell of food scraps on garbage bags is incredibly tempting to dogs. They might tear through those tempting plastic sacks to find a tasty treat, sometimes ingesting the bag itself, which can lead to dangerous blockages. Invest in a pet-proof trash can with a secure lid and keep spare bags up and out of sight.
4. Pesticides and Fertilizers
From rat poison to weed killer, garden products often contain potent chemicals highly toxic to pets. They may lick their paws after walking through a treated area or be tempted to investigate those strangely tempting, granular pellets. Securely store ANY pest control or garden chemicals far out of your pet’s reach.
5. Those Little Silica Gel Packets
They’re in everything – shoes, new purses, even beef jerky! While the silica beads themselves are usually non-toxic, the packets often contain other harmful substances or may pose a choking hazard, especially for small pets. Play it safe and toss those moisture-absorbing packets in the trash immediately, making sure Fido doesn’t fish them out.
6. Batteries
Batteries are everywhere, powering gadgets and remotes. But if those enticing little cylinders get punctured by a curious canine, they can leak harmful chemicals. Even if not swallowed, the strong alkaline in batteries can cause severe burns if a pet licks one. Secure any loose batteries safely away in childproof drawers.
7. Mothballs
Mothballs are a common solution to keep pests out of winter storage bins. However, they contain highly concentrated chemicals like naphthalene, which are toxic to pets. Just sniffing them can cause problems, and ingestion can be fatal. Consider safer alternatives or store mothballs in airtight containers completely inaccessible to your furry friends.
8. Personal Care Products
Your under-the-sink cabinet is probably a treasure trove of lotions, creams, and perfumes. These tempting scents can attract pets, but ingestion can be disastrous. Ingredients like menthol, camphor, or even alcohol can be dangerous to pets. Keep all personal care products neatly stored out of reach, ensuring lids are securely fastened.
9. Anything That Smells Delicious
Dogs, especially, have a powerful sense of smell. If something under the sink gives off a tempting food-like scent (dish soap, certain cleaning products, hand lotion), it might become irresistible. To avoid tempting your playful pup into a kitchen cupboard crime spree, do a sniffing audit. Stash anything that might smell like a treat well out of their reach.
10. Essential Oils
Many essential oils smell lovely to us but are toxic to animals. Tea tree oil, peppermint, even citrus oils can cause significant problems for cats and dogs, especially if they come into contact with their skin. Ditch the essential oil diffuser if you have pets, and keep those potent oils stored like medication.
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